1989 90hp 3 cyl - what do I look for?

sly_karma

Seaman
Joined
Aug 25, 2005
Messages
68
The boat I am considering buying has a saltwater-run 1989 3cyl Merc 90 hp. I've done a bit of research here and I gather that this engine doesn't like to idle smoothly but it runs well at full throttle.<br /><br />What other general impressions do posters have of this engine? Any notorious gremlins I should be looking for?<br /><br />What should I be looking for when I go look at it? (only seen photos so far). I know enough to do compression test and check leg oil for water, after that I'm about done. I owned 1980 Merc 80 hp before so have a little familiarity with the breed.<br /><br />What was factory compression spec, and how much variation between cylinders is permissable?<br /><br />Any help appreciated, send me your carpentry questions so I can reciprocate.<br /><br />Wally
 

Bob H.

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
May 4, 2005
Messages
113
Re: 1989 90hp 3 cyl - what do I look for?

I have an 87-80hp and the 3-cyl does idle a bit rough. Can't remember the compression but look for no more than 10% variation. At that age in saltwater the likely thing that may crop up is exhaust plate corrosion or the stator. Check wire insulation. Not a big deal but it will probably be soft. Also, check threads in spark plug holes. I just put heli-coils in mine last week.
 

andy6374

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Aug 4, 2005
Messages
1,617
Re: 1989 90hp 3 cyl - what do I look for?

Compression,Compression,Compression. If she' got that then it will run like a raped ape. Give a good carb cleaning and she should idle just fine. My 88' V6 200Hp idles smoothly, that is when the carbs are nice and clean.<br /><br />-andy
 

andy6374

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Aug 4, 2005
Messages
1,617
Re: 1989 90hp 3 cyl - what do I look for?

If you are looking for more "notorious gremlins " then...switchboxes and stators are famous for failure. Not that they always fail, but chances are if the engine all of sudden isn't sounding right or won't fire up--> switchbox and/or stator. easy fixes. And once you replace the OEM stator with a CDI/Rapair brand stator, life will be even better.<br /><br />-andy
 
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